Seiko 4823A - Technical Guide
Seiko 4823A – Technical Guide
General Overview
-
Caliber: Seiko 4823A
-
Type: Quartz movement
-
Manufacturer: Suwa Seikosha (Seiko Group)
-
Production Period: 1973–1978
-
Movement Family: 48-series (Seiko's premium quartz line)
-
Primary Use: Grand Seiko and King Seiko watches
-
Notable Feature: High-accuracy quartz movement, used in some of Seiko’s first quartz chronometers
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Quartz (time + date) |
| Regulation System | Trimmer capacitor (manual fine-tuning) |
| Frequency | 32,768 Hz (standard quartz frequency) |
| Jewels | 9 (for gear train and step motor) |
| Battery | SR43SW (or equivalent 1.55V silver-oxide) |
| Battery Life | Approx. 2 years |
| Hacking Seconds | Yes |
| Calendar | Date only (quickset) |
| Accuracy Rating | ±5 seconds/month (factory spec) |
| Diameter | Approx. 26 mm |
| Height | Approx. 4.5 mm |
Functional Description
The Seiko 4823A is a high-grade quartz movement that combines mechanical sophistication with early quartz reliability. Unlike cheaper quartz calibers of the era, the 4823A uses multiple jewels, a metal gear train, and stepping motor design closer to mechanical standards. It was designed to maintain a luxury finish and be serviceable like a mechanical watch.
Crown Operation
| Position | Function |
|---|---|
| 0 | Normal – seconds ticking |
| 1 | Quickset date (turn clockwise) |
| 2 | Time setting (with hacking) |
Calendar System
-
Date Window: Positioned at 3 o’clock
-
Quickset Function: Operated by turning the crown in position 1
-
Calendar Drive: Gear-driven by stepper motor; reliable and instantaneous
-
Date Changeover: Instant, typically at midnight
Watch Models Using the 4823A
The 4823A appeared in prestigious quartz models including:
-
Grand Seiko 4823-8000 / 8001
-
King Seiko 4823-8000 / 8001
-
Seiko Quartz QT series (select references)
-
Cases in stainless steel or gold-cap, with polished bezels and applied markers
-
Dials often marked with “Quartz”, “Chronometer”, or “Grand Seiko”
Performance Benchmarks
| Metric | Factory Standard |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±5 seconds/month |
| Battery Voltage | 1.55V (constant) |
| Battery Life | 2–3 years with SR43SW |
| Step Motor Current | Approx. 0.3 μA |
When serviced and regulated, these movements still rival modern quartz accuracy.
Disassembly and Service Notes
| Component | Notes |
|---|---|
| Circuit Board | Handle with care; ESD-safe tools recommended |
| Trimmer Capacitor | Used to adjust rate slightly; do not overtune |
| Rotor and Coil Unit | Jewel-supported; inspect for corrosion or debris |
| Step Motor | Reliable design but sensitive to magnetization |
| Date Quickset System | Clean and lubricate gear teeth if dry or stiff |
Due to its mechanical-like construction, the 4823A is serviceable, unlike many modern sealed quartz movements.
Lubrication Points
Minimal lubrication is required, but for long-term accuracy:
| Component | Lubricant Recommended |
|---|---|
| Calendar Gears | Moebius 9010 or HP1300 |
| Center & Intermediate Wheels | Moebius Quartz Oil |
| Setting Lever & Keyless | Molykote DX |
| Step Rotor Pivot (if jeweled) | Moebius 9010 |
Avoid lubricating the circuit board or motor coils.
Common Issues and Fixes
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Watch stops intermittently | Battery contact corrosion | Clean contacts, replace battery |
| Seconds hand jumps erratically | Weak or dirty step motor | Clean pivots, inspect motor coil |
| Gaining/losing time | Trimmer capacitor drift | Re-regulate using quartz timer |
| No quickset function | Dry or misaligned quickset wheel | Clean, lubricate or reposition gear |
Collectibility and Value
The 4823A-powered Grand Seiko and King Seiko models are now recognized as some of the most collectible early quartz watches, especially when original and well-preserved.
| Condition | Estimated Value (Watch) |
|---|---|
| Working, average condition | $500–$900 |
| Serviced, clean example | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Mint or boxed | $1,800–$2,500+ |
These watches mark an important era when quartz met luxury, before cost-cutting designs became common in the 1980s.
Conclusion
The Seiko 4823A is a landmark quartz movement that reflects Seiko’s vision of combining technological innovation with high-end horology. With its robust construction, jeweled movement, high accuracy, and serviceability, it continues to be admired by collectors and technicians alike. Whether you’re restoring one or wearing it daily, the 4823A is a key part of Seiko’s quartz legacy.
DownloadIf you don't see the PDF file click on this link »
